Naggar Castle is a medieval castle, located in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, India. Built by Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu in around 1460 A.D, it was taken over by Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation, to run as a heritage hotel, since 1978. Naggar Castle is not only a historical landmark but also a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the culture and natural beauty of the Himalayas while enjoying comfortable accommodations. It remains a testament to the rich heritage of the Kullu Valley
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What is Naggar Castle famous for?
The Naggar Castle is a magnificent historical structure made of stone and wood, The castle was built by Raja Sidhi Singh in 1460 AD in an impressive combination of European and Himalayan architecture. There are three small shrines present within the premises that hold religious significance.
Naggar was the capital of the erstwhile Kullu Rajas for about 1400 years. It was founded by the Visudh Pal and remained the State headquarters until the capital was transformed into Kullu (Sultanpur) by Raja Jagat Singh.
Naggar Castle, the official seat of kings for centuries. was built by Raja Sidh Singh more than 500 years ago. According to a legend, he used stones from the abandoned palace (Gardhak) of Rana Bhonsal to build the castle. He ordered the laborers to form a human chain over the Beas River connecting its left and right banks to transfer the stones manually. The castle survived the earthquake of 1905. While most houses in the valley and the nearby city of Jawa were completely ruined, the castle's use of earthquake-proof techniques helped it sustain itself despite the calamity.
Himalayan Research Institute named Urusvati in Naggar In 1978 it was taken over to the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC), to run as a heritage hotel.
The Russian painter and explorer Nicholas Roerich settled in Naggar in the early 20th century. The Roerich Estate, his two-floor house, is now a museum and key attraction of the town featuring a collection of his popular paintings
Naggar Castle, also known as Naggar Castle Hotel, is a historic castle and hotel located in the town of Naggar in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is a popular tourist attraction and a prime example of traditional Himachali architecture.
location: Naggar
Entry Fee: 20 Rs
Timing: 10.00 am to 5.00 pm
History: Naggar Castle was built in the 15th century by Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu. It served as the residence of the Kullu royal family for several centuries.
Architecture: The castle showcases beautiful Himalayan architectural elements, with wooden beams and stone walls. It offers stunning views of the surrounding valley and the snow-capped mountains.
Museum: Within the castle, there is a small museum that displays artifacts related to the history and culture of the Kullu Valley. You can explore ancient stone carvings, traditional Himachali instruments, and more.
Accommodation: Today, Naggar Castle has been converted into a hotel, making it a unique place to stay for tourists. The rooms in the castle offer a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Staying at the castle allows visitors to experience the grandeur of a bygone era.
Scenic Location: The castle is perched on a hill and provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. You can see the Beas River winding through the valley and the lush greenery of the Kullu region.
Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery: Close to Naggar Castle, there is an art gallery dedicated to Nicholas Roerich, a Russian painter, writer, and philosopher who settled in the area. The gallery houses a collection of his artworks and is another attraction worth visiting.
Cultural Significance: Naggar Castle is not only a historical site but also holds cultural significance. It has been featured in various movies, including the Bollywood film "Jab We Met."
Naggar Castle is a serene and picturesque destination that offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of Himachal Pradesh. Visitors can explore its architecture, history, and natural beauty while enjoying a comfortable stay in this unique heritage hotel.
Access
Distance from Delhi: 589 km
Distance from Shimla: 246 km
Distance from Kullu (main town): 26 km
Distance from Manali: 22 km
Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery:
Located near Naggar Castle, this art gallery is dedicated to the works of Nicholas Roerich, a Russian painter,
writer, and philosopher who settled in the area. The gallery houses a collection of his paintings and is a must-visit
for art enthusiasts.
Jana Waterfall:
Jana Waterfall is a picturesque waterfall located in the village of Jana, which is situated in the Kullu
district of Himachal Pradesh, India. This waterfall is a popular tourist attraction in the region and is
known for its stunning natural beauty and serene surroundings.
Manali:
Manali, one of the most popular hill stations in India, is approximately 20 kilometers from Naggar. It offers
a wide range of activities, including adventure sports, shopping, dining, and exploring the Old Manali area.
Hidimba Temple:
Located in Manali, the Hidimba Temple is a famous religious site dedicated to Hidimba Devi, the wife of
Bhima from the Indian epic Mahabharata. The temple is known for its unique architecture and tranquil
surroundings.
Old Manali:
Old Manali is a charming and more laid-back part of Manali town. It's known for its narrow lanes,
traditional houses, and vibrant cafes. It's a great place to explore and unwind.
Solang Valley:
Solang Valley is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts, located about 30 kilometers from Naggar.
You can enjoy activities like paragliding, ziplining, and skiing (seasonal) in the Solang Valley.
Kullu:
Kullu town, around 20 kilometers from Naggar, is known for its scenic beauty, bustling markets, and the Kullu Dussehra festival,which is celebrated with great fervor.
Kasol:
Kasol, a picturesque village nestled in the Parvati Valley, is about 75 kilometers from Naggar. It's a favorite
destination among backpackers and offers trekking opportunities, scenic landscapes, and a laid-back
atmosphere.
Manikaran:
Manikaran, situated around 80 kilometers from Naggar, is famous for its hot springs and the Manikaran
Sahib Gurudwara. It's a sacred place for both Sikhs and Hindus.
Naggar Village:
Explore the quaint village of Naggar itself, which has traditional Himachali houses, apple orchards, and
a serene ambiance.
These nearby places offer a diverse range of experiences, from nature and adventure to cultural and spiritual exploration. Whether you're interested in trekking, art, history, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty of the Himalayas, Naggar and its surroundings have much to offer.
